WASHINGTON, DC - The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) applauds the United States Senate for confirming a new Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Jeh Johnson.

"Secretary Johnson takes the reins of DHS at a crucial time in the department's history -a time when no issue is more important than modernizing our immigration laws. Our nation is on the cusp of immigration reform, and we look forward to working with the Secretary to find a way to meet our national security needs while affirming the fundamental values and rights on which our country was founded," said AILA President Doug Stump.

Mr. Stump remarked, "Over the past few years, AILA has seen DHS move forward in a positive way on some immigration issues, such as the announcement last year of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and the quick implementation of that policy. AILA and its members welcomed that change and worked hard to ensure that eligible applicants were made aware of the opportunity that DACA affords. However, in other areas DHS has pursued objectionable policies, such as its aggressive push for unprecedented removal numbers that have torn families and communities apart."

Mr. Johnson brings to the office of Secretary extensive experience as a trial lawyer and has answered the call to serve the United States on several occasions, most recently as General Counsel for the Department of Defense (DoD).

"Transitioning to DHS from DoD will probably require some time for adjustment, but we hope one of his first acts as Secretary will be to carefully reexamine DHS's current enforcement practices, and truly prioritize enforcement for serious criminal offenders who pose threats to our communities. That would make far more sense than going after people who pose no such threats, have lived here for years, contribute to the economy, and just want a chance to raise their families in peace," concluded Mr. Stump.

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The American Immigration Lawyers Association is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and enhance the professional development of its members.